Fiberglass Tanks and Vessels (FRP): Uses and Applications

May 8, 2018

If steel-plated pressure vessels are stronger than other fluid processing solutions, why would you want to work with any other material? The answer is easy enough to deduce. To make a long story short, some projects just don't need that kind of alloy-reinforced containment strength. It would be an impractical and prohibitively expensive practise, this metallurgical design approach. Another material needs to be optioned, one that calls upon an FRP solution.

Reviewing FRP Engineered Products

Fiberglass tanks and vessels are also referred to as Fibre-Reinforced Plastic containment units. Think of this toughened composite as a corrosion proof substitute. After all, even the most advanced alloys are corrosion-resistant, but there's a world of difference between a material that's entirely oxidization proof and one that "resists" this metal eating action. No, FRP tanks and vessels are inherently corrosion proof, so they can be installed for applications that demonstrate the most service-hostile operational conditions. Light and strong, fibreglass vessels suit the most challenging uses and applications you can imagine.

In Search of Underground Applications

Costly below-ground metal pressure vessels don't always adapt to their subterranean conditions. When soil alkalinity strikes, that metallic tank will corrode. Fortunately, there are corrosion mitigating measures in place when unfavourable ground conditions arise, but now you're looking at more design features, including a cathodic protection system. FRP containment units won't rust when they're in contact with wet and chemically active ground soils. Subterranean potable water and sewage containment vessels benefit from this premium feature. Better yet, ground-stored ethanol blends and biofuels won't corrode sunken fibreglass vessels.

Considering Exposed Usage Sites

Light and unlikely to expand and contract due to a forceful thermal cycle, fibreglass tanks and vessels find a place of prominence in chemical processing facilities. Their lightweight form factor allows for higher volumes, yet the materials that form these stout containment units won't react when that chemical exhibits its most aggressive properties. It's the same with marine applications, the same with harsh climates, and it's exactly the same in the shipping industry. FRP tanks and vessels just won't corrode or oxidize.

Older fibreglass vessels were weakened by UV exposure. New glass types and chemical processes remove that weakness. However, it should be remembered that this material is not intended for applications that employ extreme pressures. FRV containment solutions are built for atmospheric pressures and low-pressure storage applications. Still, if the nominated usage pressure is low, it's hard to deny the advantages of this filament wound composite. Employ these tanks and vessels in the food sector, perhaps to store vinegar. Alternatively, employ the storage containers as a key storage component in a sodium chloride electrolysis processing setup, for this glass reinforced plastic won't be impacted by aggressive salts.

Contact Details

Fusion - Weld Engineering Pty Ltd
ABN 98 068 987619

1865 Frankston Flinders Road,
Hastings, VIC 3915

Ph: (03) 5909 8218

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